Tragic Incident Near CDC Headquarters

A tragic event unfolded near the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia, when Officer David Rose, 33, was fatally shot while responding to a gunman. The incident occurred on Friday and led to a shelter-in-place order for nearby Emory University. The suspected gunman, whose identity remains unknown, was also killed during the confrontation. Officer Rose was immediately transported to Emory University Hospital on Clifton Road, where he succumbed to his injuries.

Officer David Rose’s Dedication to Service

Officer Rose had been with the DeKalb County Police Department since September of the previous year. He is survived by his pregnant wife and two children. Interim Police Chief Greg Padrick expressed deep sorrow over the loss, highlighting Rose’s commitment to serving the community. “At this time we’re asking for the community’s prayers for his family, his friends, his loved ones and the entire DeKalb County Police Department family,” Padrick stated.

Details of the Shooting

The shooting began shortly before 5 p.m. when a man opened fire in front of the CDC campus. Responding officers found Officer Rose critically wounded and heard additional gunfire from a nearby CVS pharmacy. Upon entering the pharmacy, officers discovered the shooter on the second floor with at least one gunshot wound. It remains unclear whether this wound was self-inflicted or resulted from police gunfire.

Community and Official Reactions

Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum commended law enforcement’s swift response, stating that officers from multiple districts acted courageously to neutralize the threat. CDC Director Susan Monarez expressed heartbreak over the events, acknowledging the bravery of local law enforcement who acted decisively to prevent further harm. U.S. Sen. Raphael Warnock also shared his condolences and gratitude for the officers’ service.

Ongoing Investigation

The Georgia Bureau of Investigations (GBI) is leading the investigation into this tragic incident, with assistance from the FBI’s Atlanta office. Federal and state officials have expressed their horror at the shooting and appreciation for law enforcement’s quick action.